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NERC Science Information Strategy

Implementing the strategy

The Science Information Strategy is being implemented in three phases, beginning April 2010. Each of these phases will be made up of a number of smaller projects.

Implementation plan diagram (319KB)

Phase 1

The primary objective of this phase is to establish a baseline to inform and support the activities in the later phases of the implementation. Phase 1 will concentrate on determining user requirements, documenting existing holdings, agreeing an information architecture, updating the NERC Data Policy and improving the data discovery tools.

Phase 2

This phase will begin to implement the changes identified from the phase 1 baselining activities. Emphasis will be on a revised funding model for the data centres, improvements in efficiencies, and providing better access to and interoperability of data.

The key outcomes of this phase are likely to be:

  • First stages of transformational changes to the data centres following on from the understanding of data centre cost bases and processes, and potential efficiency savings.
  • A clear funding model for all data and science information activities across NERC.
  • Implementation of the agreed information architecture within NERC.
  • Continuing implementation of the INSPIRE compliant 'single face' of NERC data through a common set of services for web access to its data.
  • Identification of non-NERC data that are crucial to delivery of NGSPE, working with third-party data management partners to secure access to these data.
  • Continued informatics research.

Phase 3

Phase 3 will continue with the changes suggested in phases 1 and 2. The key outputs will be extending data services to new areas; eg to enable greater interoperability, new processes to manage data from responsive mode projects and approved approaches to implement open access publishing.

The key outcomes are likely to be:

  • More datasets will be 'conditioned' to enable interoperability, and meet the requirements of INSPIRE.
  • Greater transparency on the supply of data and information, including gaining Information Fair Trader accreditation where appropriate.
  • Clarified approach and support for Open Access publishing.
  • Improved level and structure of feedback routinely received from stakeholders.
  • Linked archive and library catalogues with data discovery services where appropriate.

For further information please contact:

Mike Brown
Programme Manager
Tel: 01524 595953

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